If a fire occurs in your home, your chances of escape and avoiding injury will depend on how quickly and safely you are able to get out. Consequently, it would be a lot easier if you have already thought of an escape plan.

For people who are not able to hear a conventional smoke alarm, there are special smoke alarms available which make use of a vibrating pad or flashing light instead of the auditory signal. The vibrating pad alarms are particularly useful for deaf-blind people.

If you would need assistance to make your escape, it is vital that you have some means of summoning help by your bed, ie a buzzer, intercom or telephone. There are also systems available which will automatically dial out on your telephone line to summon help or send a signal to a manned control room. Further information on community alarms and other issues relating to the welfare of the disabled, is available from Surrey County Council. Information for carers is also available.

All Surrey households can receive a free home fire safety visit that looks to minimise the risk of fire in the home.

See our fire prevention and detection pages for other information on fire safety issues.